What better way to
say, “Happy birthday, America,” than to give back to your community? This
Fourth of July, grab some of your besties and help improve your neighborhood,
town and country with these four fun activities.

Land of opportunity

The United States was
originally founded by immigrants, so why not welcome the people who’ve migrated
to your community? Make the new faces that have moved into your neighborhood
feel at home by holding a block party. Be sure to introduce the newcomers to
all of your neighbors, and then don’t forget to stop by a few days after to
check in on your new friends.

The work behind the holiday magic

Your town has an
annual Fourth of July parade, and it’s a huge highlight for you and your fam.
Well, have you ever thought about all of the work that goes into it? This year,
volunteer to help set up before or clean up after the parade. You’ll be
surprised just how much work other community members have been putting in to give
you and your fam such a fab show.

A long way from home

While you’re celebratin’ your freedom with barbeques and
pool parties, there are tons of soldiers who are out there still protecting it.
Show them your appreciation by collecting recently released DVDs and Xbox games
to send overseas to them.You can find
shipping information and see a complete list of what kinds of items troops miss
most from home at give2thetroops.org.

Land of the free,
home of the dirty?

If your fam picnics in the park for the Fourth of July, head
over there a few days early and clean it up. Pick up trash, and see about
installing some recycling bins. You can even wash off the equipment if it
hasn’t rained in a while. Maybe you can plant a few trees and organize to have
new wood chips laid down on the playground, too.